8 Best Seasonings for Steak on Grill 2026

Fire up the grill and transport your taste buds to São Paulo with McCormick Grill Mates Brazilian Steakhouse Seasoning—a bold, aromatic blend that brings the sizzle of South American churrasco straight to your backyard. Packed with black pepper, garlic, onion, and parsley, this seasoning delivers a savory-herbal punch that cuts through rich cuts of meat like ribeye or flank steak, solving the all-too-common problem of bland, one-note grilled flavors. It’s the kind of flavor-forward spark that turns a routine cookout into a mini culinary adventure without demanding extra prep time or kitchen gymnastics.

In real-world grilling tests, this seasoning proved its mettle on everything from skirt steak to grilled shrimp, where its fine granules adhered well and formed a light crust without overpowering the protein. The 2.12 oz size is perfect for occasional grillers, and the shaker bottle ensures even dispersion—though it’s a bit too fine for thick rubs that need grip. While it excels on meats, it also shines on zucchini and bell peppers, adding an herbal depth that mimics fresh chimichurri. That said, it lacks the heat or smokiness some crave in a steak rub, making it less ideal for those who love a spicy kick or charred complexity.

Compared to the robust, coarse texture of the full-sized Montreal blend, this Brazilian version is more subtle and herb-centric, positioning it as a go-to for fans of fresh, garden-driven flavor profiles. It’s not the heaviest hitter in McCormick’s lineup, but for those seeking a bright, international twist without sugar or artificial additives, it’s a standout. It delivers more personality than basic pepper-salt mixes, though it doesn’t pack the same punch as Dan-O’s or Weber’s gourmet-grade options.

If you’ve ever craved the rich, velvety taste of butter-basted steak but want to skip the grease and calories, Dan-O’s Outlaws Butter Steak Seasoning is a game-changer. This zero-calorie, sugar-free blend masterfully mimics the luxurious mouthfeel of melted butter using a clever fusion of garlic, onion, lemon peel, orange peel, and natural butter flavor—delivering a savory-citrus complexity that elevates even budget cuts of beef. It’s the ultimate solution for health-conscious grillers who refuse to sacrifice flavor, turning dry rubs into flavor bombs with just a few shakes.

In testing, this seasoning proved incredibly versatile—excelling not only as a dry rub for ribeye and flank steak but also as a finishing touch for grilled vegetables and baked potatoes. The 6.9 oz bottle offers excellent value, and the granules are fine enough to distribute evenly but not so powdery that they burn on high heat. On the grill, it developed a golden, aromatic crust without charring, thanks to its lack of sugar. However, those seeking a bold pepper kick or smoky depth might find it too mellow, as the buttery profile dominates the background notes.

When stacked against Weber’s Chicago blend or the classic Montreal rub, Dan-O’s leans softer and more nuanced, making it ideal for everyday use rather than steakhouse spectacle. It’s a kitchen MVP for low-carb, keto, and diabetic diets, where flavor can’t come at the cost of macros. While it doesn’t deliver the same peppery punch as some competitors, it offers something rare: buttery richness without the butter—a feat few seasonings can claim.

Sometimes, greatness lies in simplicity—and Blackstone’s SPG Seasoning proves that salt, pepper, and garlic can be a holy trinity when done right. This no-frills, all-purpose rub delivers a clean, bold foundation that enhances meat without masking its natural flavor, making it the ideal choice for purists who want to taste the steak first and the seasoning second. Crafted with high-quality ingredients and blended in the USA, it solves the common issue of caking with added vegetable fiber, ensuring every shake is smooth, consistent, and clump-free—no more tapping the bottle like a stubborn ketchup bottle.

In real-world use, this seasoning performed exceptionally across grilled ribeyes, chicken thighs, and even roasted fries, forming a crisp, even crust thanks to its fine-but-not-dusty texture. The 6.2 oz shaker is generous and built for frequent use, with a twist-top design that seals tightly to preserve freshness. On the grill, it browned beautifully without burning, a testament to its no-sugar, no-fillers formula. While it lacks the complexity of smoked or sweet blends, that’s by design—it’s meant to be a reliable base, not a flavor event.

Compared to the more aggressive Montreal blends, Blackstone’s SPG is more restrained and versatile, similar in spirit to Weber’s Chicago mix but with a sharper garlic presence. It’s the go-to for grill masters who layer flavors or use marinades, as it doesn’t compete with other ingredients. For those seeking a dependable, everyday rub that works on everything from steak to scrambled eggs, this is a workhorse with integrity—offering consistent performance and value without chasing trends.

Step into the backyard steakhouse with Weber Chicago Steak Seasoning, a gourmet-grade blend that brings the bold, peppery soul of a classic Chicago-style steakhouse to your grill. This 13 oz behemoth is packed with a coarse mix of cracked pepper, garlic, and onion, delivering a savory, nose-tingling kick that stands up to thick-cut ribeyes and strip steaks—perfect for those who want their seasoning to be felt, not just tasted. It solves the all-too-common issue of weak rubs that vanish under flame, instead forming a crust that crackles with every bite.

In testing, this seasoning excelled under high-heat searing, where its coarse grind resisted burning and created a deeply caramelized exterior. The generous 13 oz size makes it ideal for frequent grillers or backyard entertainers, and the texture ensures excellent adhesion to meat. It also transforms burgers and grilled veggies, adding a steakhouse flair to everyday meals. However, its pepper-forward profile can overwhelm delicate proteins like fish or chicken if over-applied, and those avoiding sodium should note it’s not a low-salt option.

Pitted against McCormick’s Montreal blend, Weber’s version feels more refined and less salty, with a cleaner, more balanced pepper presence. It’s the choice for purists who appreciate elevated simplicity over flashy flavor twists. While it lacks the sweetness of bourbon or smokiness of hickory, it delivers steakhouse authenticity in a bottle—offering greater depth and texture than most supermarket blends.

For those who crave a deep, campfire-kissed crust on their steak, McCormick Grill Mates Smoky Montreal Steak Seasoning delivers bold, wood-fired flavor in a shake. Infused with natural hickory smoke and built on a foundation of 16-mesh black pepper, garlic, and coarse spices, this blend brings the essence of smoked meat without needing a smoker—perfect for urban grillers with limited space or time. It solves the frustration of flat, one-dimensional rubs by adding layered smokiness and texture, making even thin cuts taste rich and complex.

In real-world grilling, this seasoning formed a dark, aromatic crust on ribeyes and burgers, with the coarse grind adhering firmly and resisting blow-off on windy decks. The 3.4 oz bottle offers more than the smallest sizes, and a little truly goes a long way—1 tbsp per pound is all it takes to dominate the flavor profile. It also works well on pan-seared steaks and roasted potatoes, carrying its smokiness across cooking methods. That said, the smoke flavor can dominate if overused, and it’s not ideal for those seeking a bright or herbal note.

Compared to the original Montreal blend, this version adds a distinct smoky dimension that elevates it for barbecue purists, though it lacks the sweetness of the Brown Sugar Bourbon variant. It’s the ideal middle ground between traditional spice and smoked depth—more personality than basic SPG, but less sugar than sweet blends. For grillers who want bold, campfire-inspired flavor without the smoker, it’s a standout.

When it comes to no-nonsense, crowd-pleasing steak flavor, the McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning (28 oz) is the undisputed king—a jumbo-sized powerhouse that delivers the bold, garlicky, peppery punch that’s made it America’s #1 grilling seasoning for a reason. With its coarse texture and craveable crust-forming ability, it solves the eternal grilling dilemma: how to make every bite taste like it came from a high-end steakhouse. This is the gold standard for a reason—it’s reliable, flavorful, and built for heavy use.

In testing, this blend excelled on thick-cut steaks and grilled pork chops, where its generous granules locked in place and developed a crispy, flavor-packed exterior without burning. The 28 oz size is perfect for tailgaters, BBQ teams, or families who grill weekly, offering unmatched value and longevity. It also works as a dry brine, drawing out moisture and creating a perfect sear. While it’s not low in sodium and lacks sweetness or smokiness, that’s not the point—it’s a focused, savory punch that lets the meat shine.

Stacked against the Smoky Montreal version, this original blend is cleaner and more versatile, while the 28 oz format makes it more economical than smaller bottles. It’s the best overall choice for those who want maximum flavor, bulk value, and proven performance—outperforming gourmet options in consistency and availability. For grillers who want one seasoning to rule them all, this is it.

Sweet, smoky, and just spicy enough to keep things interesting, McCormick Grill Mates Brown Sugar Bourbon Seasoning is a flavor bomb in a 3 oz bottle, blending brown sugar, bourbon essence, garlic, and onion into a sticky, caramelizing rub that turns any steak into a dessert-like indulgence. It’s the answer to dry, bland grilled meat, creating a glossy, mahogany crust that crackles with every bite—perfect for those who love their steak with a hint of Southern smokehouse charm.

In real-world use, this seasoning excels on ribeyes, pork chops, and chicken thighs, where the sugar content promotes deep browning and rich umami. The fine granules dissolve slightly during cooking, forming a glaze rather than a dry crust, which is ideal for medium-heat grilling or broiling. However, on high-heat sears, it can burn if not monitored, so it’s best for indirect grilling or finishing. The 3 oz size is economical for occasional use but may run out fast for frequent grillers.

Compared to the Smoky Montreal or Weber Chicago blends, this one leans sweeter and more indulgent, making it less of an everyday rub and more of a special-occasion treat. It’s not for low-sugar diets, but for those who want a rich, bourbon-kissed depth, it’s unmatched. It offers more complexity than basic SPG, though less heat than pepper-forward options.

For health-conscious grillers who still want big flavor without the blood pressure spike, McCormick Grill Mates 25% Less Sodium Montreal Steak Seasoning is a smart, balanced upgrade to the classic blend. It retains the iconic mix of coarsely ground pepper, garlic, and savory spices but cuts salt by a full quarter—making it a responsible choice without sacrificing the boldness that makes Montreal seasoning a grilling legend. It solves the dilemma of tasty vs. healthy, proving you don’t have to choose.

In testing, it performed nearly identically to the original—forming a solid crust on steaks and chicken, with even distribution and no caking. The 3.18 oz shaker is slightly larger than most travel sizes, making it great for small households or testing before committing to bulk. While it’s less salty, the flavor remains robust, thanks to the high-quality spice blend. Still, those used to the full-sodium version may notice a slight muted punch, and it’s not as low-sodium as dedicated heart-healthy blends.

Compared to the regular Montreal 28 oz, this is the healthier sibling—same DNA, lighter footprint. It’s not as economical for heavy use, but for those managing sodium intake, it’s the best compromise between taste and wellness. It delivers nearly the same satisfaction as the original, just with more restraint.